HOLLAND -- Garrett Knoth, a member of the Hope College admissions staff for more than 20 years, died on Friday, Dec. 14, after a long struggle with cancer. He was 66.

Knoth joined the Hope staff in 1991 as an assistant director of admissions. He was promoted to associate director in 1996 and to senior associate director in 2007.

“Garrett, the consummate professional, played a significant role in shaping the admissions office over the past 20 years,” said William Vanderbilt, vice president for admissions at Hope. “His competitive nature was only exceeded by his genuine care for what was best for the prospective student. During his tenure enrollment at Hope rose from 2,500 full-time-equivalent students to over 3,200 today. Although competitive by nature, Garrett was quick to coach younger staff to help them improve and was a tremendous team player. He will be missed in the admissions office but his legacy will be with us for years to come.”

Prior to coming to Hope, Knoth had served as dean of admissions and financial assistance at Augustana College in Rock Island, Ill. His career experience also included serving as director of admissions at Carroll College in Waukesha, Wis., as an admissions counselor and associate director of admissions at Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa, as a consultant to 14 colleges at Stuart Weiner and Associates in Chicago, Ill., and as director of admissions and financial aid at Central College in Pella, Iowa.

He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in history and physical education from Cornell College in 1968, and his Master of Arts degree in student personnel from the University of Iowa in 1976.

Survivors include his wife of 33 years, Donna.

A memorial service will take place at Fellowship Reformed Church, 300 North 168th Ave., Holland on Thursday, December 20, at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Brian Keepers officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Garrett and Donna Knoth Endowed Fund at Hope College or to Fellowship Reformed Church of to Hospice of Holland.